If the past two decades have taught us anything then it is that modern cinema is currently in the age of the “Superhero”. With both Marvel and D.C. cinematic universes dominating box office figures, it is perhaps inevitable that others would follow suit. Comic books have proven popular in most cultures and provide a wealth of source material as well as storyboarding shorthand. Therefore, we eventually got the announcement in 2019 of the Bumilangit cinematic universe in Indonesia using the Marvel model of interconnected stories and media to tell their own stories. Following “Gundala” in 2019 came a delay due to the pandemic. With “Sri Asih: The Warrior” comes an attempt to regain momentum and unleash comic book action Indonesian style on a global audience as Shout Factory releases it on Blu-ray.
A volcanic eruption sees the tragic loss of Alana's parents and she grows up in an orphanage along with her friend Tangguh. Adopted by Miss Sarito (Jenny Zhang) she grows up into an MMA fighter that struggles to control her anger that threatens to overwhelm her. An encounter with Mateo (Randy Pangalila) leads to a cage fight where her anger consumes her, despite initially agreeing to throw the fight. His father Prayogo (Surya Saputra) seeks revenge but there is more than just a blood debt to pay. Reacquainted with an adult Tangguh (Jefri Nichol) and accompanied by Kala (Dimas Anggara), Alana starts to learn of her connection to the Fire Goddess and her own reincarnation as Sri Asih. Supported by policeman Jatmiko (Reza Rehedian) the stage is set for a final confrontation but the true enemy may be hiding in plain site.
Sri Asih is considered to be one of the first comic book creations in Indonesia, originally published back in the 1950's. So, it would make sense to be one of the first adaptations to hit the screen. Comics have always been able to reinvent characters and refresh them for new audiences and the launch of the Bumilangit cinematic universe provides such an opportunity. From an outsider prospective, the look of Sri Asih is very similar to that of Wonder Woman. Whilst the skill set is completely different as is the back story, visually it is noticeable in terms of costume. Bringing her to life is Pevita Pearce who brings a lot of energy to the part and mostly captures the spirit of the character. She comes across really well in the action sequences and has a presence that is vital when portraying a reincarnation of a warrior.
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She's helped by a solid supporting cast. The first half is dominated by Mateo, a true prodigal son, boasting of his fighting prowess to his cronies despite the other fighters being paid off to lose. His attitude and bravado leads to his comeuppance and Randy Pangalila plays up the loathsome aspects to the hilt and threatens to walk off with the movie. Kala is played by Dimas Anggara as part comic side kick, part exposition guy and part bad ass. Attracted to Alanhe, fumbles around and finds it even harder when Tungguh comes back into her life. Jatmiko is a character shrouded in mystery. An honest cop amidst corruption everywhere. Reza Rehedian keeps it downplayed to add to the sense there is more than we are getting shown.
Visually, “Sri Asih” looks very polished. Upi Avianto maintains a consistent style. Not allowing the effects department to completely consume the feature in the final reel as is the tendency in most comic book features. The MMA style action is clear and well framed. Once the effects kick in they enhance what we see as opposed to a distraction. The storyline is kept simple. Essentially this is an origin story and with what appears to be a number of follow-ups in the pipeline, it's vital to avoid over-complication, especially when trying to balance an audience that may be familiar with the characters and one that is being introduced to them for the first time.
The main issue with the piece though is the rather somber tone. This is more DC seriousness than Marvel lightness of touch. There is a little bit of humour involved but only intermittent. The social conscience is never far away as the story involves police corruption, plight of the poor etc. In can be a little overwhelming in it's bleak world view even if the intent is to set up Alana\Sri Asih as the righter of these wrongs. Time will tell if this world building allows for a lighter feel but for now it's simply a case of giving it a benefit of a doubt.
“Sri Asih” is a very interesting introduction to the Indonesian comic book world and by proxy, their commercial cinema. A strong female lead, well constructed action and effects merge well with a sense of its own identity. A bit more judicious editing and a bit more light amidst the darkness and it would be essential viewing. As it stands, as introductions go it's a solid start and if you are a comic book fan, tired of the current wave of disappointing adaptations hitting the screen then try something new. You might just find your new favorite superheroine.
